Robotic Systems Engineer in Montana Career Overview

As a Robotic Systems Engineer, you play a vital role in designing and developing robotic systems that are integral to various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and automation. Your expertise contributes to the innovation of technology that enhances efficiency, accuracy, and productivity across these industries.

Key aspects of the role include:

  • Design and Development: You will be responsible for creating robotic systems that perform specific tasks, ranging from simple automation processes to complex robotics used in surgical procedures.

  • Integration: Your work involves integrating software and hardware components, ensuring that these systems function seamlessly together. This requires a deep understanding of programming, control systems, and sensor technologies.

  • Troubleshooting and Maintenance: You will also focus on diagnosing issues, performing maintenance, and upgrading systems to keep them operating at peak efficiency. This aspect emphasizes your problem-solving abilities and technical acumen.

  • Collaboration: Working alongside cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, software developers, and product managers, is essential to ensure that projects are completed successfully and on time.

  • Innovation: You will be encouraged to stay ahead of industry trends and advancements, integrating new technologies and methodologies into your projects to foster continued growth and improvement.

In your capacity as a Robotic Systems Engineer, you contribute significantly to advancements in automation and robotics technology. Your work enables organizations to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance the capabilities of their existing systems, directly impacting productivity and efficiency.

Robotic Systems Engineer Salary in Montana

Annual Median: $79,480
Hourly Median: $38.21

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Robotic Systems Engineer in Montana

To become a Robotic Systems Engineer in Montana, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training that align with the technical demands of the field. The following degree programs are recommended:

  • Mechatronics Engineering: This interdisciplinary program combines mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and control engineering. It equips you with the knowledge to design and develop smart systems and robotics.

  • Robotics Engineering: This degree focuses specifically on the design, construction, operation, and use of robots. You will learn about automation, control systems, and programming, essential for working in various robotic applications.

  • Automation Engineering Technology: This program teaches you about the engineering aspects of automated systems. It includes coursework in control systems, computer-aided design, and robotics, preparing you for roles that require implementing and maintaining automated processes.

  • Electromechanical Engineering: This program merges electrical and mechanical disciplines. You will gain expertise in both hardware and software systems that are crucial in the operation of robots and automated systems.

  • Mechanical Engineering: While broader in scope, a degree in mechanical engineering provides fundamental knowledge in mechanics, dynamics, and materials science. This foundation is valuable for understanding the mechanical aspects of robotic systems.

  • Systems Engineering: This degree focuses on the design and management of complex systems over their life cycles. A systems engineering background is important for integrating various components of robotic systems and ensuring they work together effectively.

  • Electrical and Electronics Engineering: This program emphasizes the electrical components of robotic systems, including circuitry, signal processing, and control systems. Proficiency in this field is essential for the development and maintenance of robotic technologies.

In addition to a formal degree, acquiring hands-on experience through internships, co-op programs, or lab work can be beneficial in gaining practical skills relevant to the role of a Robotic Systems Engineer.

Best Schools to become a Robotic Systems Engineer in Montana 2024

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:94%
Total Enrollment:45,307

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA

In-State Tuition:$10,258
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,370
Admission Rate:17%
Graduation Rate:93%
Total Enrollment:45,296

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN

In-State Tuition:$9,718
Out-of-State Tuition:$28,520
Admission Rate:53%
Graduation Rate:83%
Total Enrollment:51,528

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,815
Out-of-State Tuition:$36,239
Admission Rate:63%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:74,014

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

In-State Tuition:$59,864
Out-of-State Tuition:$59,864
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:16,002

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,478
Out-of-State Tuition:$19,810
Admission Rate:41%
Graduation Rate:76%
Total Enrollment:68,346
Robotic Systems Engineer Job Description:
  • Research, design, develop, or test robotic applications.

Robotic Systems Engineer Required Skills and Competencies in Montana

  • Technical Proficiency: You should possess strong knowledge of robotic systems, including mechanical, electrical, and software components. Familiarity with programming languages such as C++, Python, or Java is essential for coding robotic functions.

  • Systems Design and Analysis: You need to be capable of designing and analyzing robotic systems, ensuring they function effectively within specified parameters. Understanding system integration methodologies is critical.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You must be adept at troubleshooting and solving complex engineering problems. This involves identifying issues, analyzing problems systematically, and applying creative solutions.

  • Mathematics and Physics Knowledge: A solid understanding of mathematics, particularly calculus and linear algebra, along with principles of physics, is necessary for developing and implementing algorithms and simulations.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision in your designs and processes is vital. Small errors can lead to significant malfunctions in robotic systems, so being detail-oriented is a key competency.

  • Project Management: You should have skills in managing projects, including planning, scheduling, and coordinating tasks. Being able to work within timelines and budgets is essential for successful project completion.

  • Collaboration and Communication: You must be able to communicate technical information clearly to team members and stakeholders, including non-technical audiences. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is often required.

  • Adaptability: The field of robotics is constantly evolving. Being open to learning new technologies and methods is fundamental for staying current in the industry.

  • Creativity and Innovation: You should be able to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to enhance robotic functionalities or address design challenges.

  • Safety Awareness: A thorough understanding of safety standards and protocols related to robotic systems is important, as is the ability to design and operate systems within these guidelines.

Job Duties for Robotic Systems Engineers

  • Debug robotics programs.

  • Process or interpret signals or sensor data.

  • Review or approve designs, calculations, or cost estimates.

Technologies and Skills Used by Robotic Systems Engineers

Analytical or scientific software

  • MathWorks Simulink
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Industrial control software

  • Rockwell RSLogix
  • Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Robotic Systems Engineer in Montana

The job market for Robotic Systems Engineers in Montana has shown promising trends, driven by advancements in technology and an increasing adoption of automation across various industries. Here are some key insights into the current landscape:

  • Demand:

    • The demand for Robotic Systems Engineers is rising as businesses across sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and logistics look to integrate automation solutions.
    • Increasing reliance on robotics for efficiency and innovation has created a steady need for professionals who can design, integrate, and maintain these systems.
  • Growth Potential:

    • The industry is expected to grow at a notable rate, reflecting national trends. Various reports forecast a robust growth trajectory for robotics as part of the broader field of engineering.
    • With ongoing developments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT (Internet of Things), the skill set required in robotic systems design is likely to expand, further boosting opportunities for engineers in this field.
  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Major cities in Montana, such as Billings, Missoula, and Bozeman, are emerging as centers for technology and engineering innovation. Companies in these regions are increasingly focusing on integrating robotic systems into their operations.
    • Local educational institutions and research facilities are contributing to a growing talent pool, aligning academic programs with industry needs.
    • The state government and various organizations are actively promoting initiatives to attract tech companies, enhancing the potential job market for Robotic Systems Engineers.
  • Industry Partnerships:

    • Collaborations between universities, colleges, and the private sector are fostering research and development in robotic technologies, creating pathways for employment and internships in Montana.
    • Networking opportunities through local tech meetups, workshops, and conferences can provide an avenue to connect with industry leaders and enhance job prospects.

Through this evolving landscape, professionals in robotic systems engineering will find numerous avenues to explore, driven by both local innovation and global trends in technology and automation.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Robotic Systems Engineer in Montana

  • National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC)

    • Website: NREC
    • Description: This center at Carnegie Mellon University focuses on developing innovative robotic technologies and offers various resources for engineers in the field.
  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Robotics and Automation Society

    • Website: IEEE RAS
    • Description: A professional organization dedicated to the advancement of robotics and automation technologies. Their resources include journals, conferences, and community networks.
  • Robotics Industries Association (RIA)

    • Website: Robotics Online
    • Description: RIA provides insights into industry trends, best practices, and networking opportunities for robotic systems engineers.
  • American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

    • Website: ASME
    • Description: This organization offers resources on various engineering disciplines, including robotics, and hosts conferences and workshops.
  • International Federation of Robotics (IFR)

    • Website: IFR
    • Description: IFR provides global statistics on the robotics industry, trends, and insights useful for engineers interested in the international landscape.
  • MIT OpenCourseWare

    • Website: MIT OCW Robotics
    • Description: Access free course materials from MIT’s robotics classes, including lecture notes and problem sets to enhance your knowledge.
  • Coursera and edX

    | edX Robotics

    • Description: Online platforms offering various robotics courses from top universities to help expand your expertise and credentials.
  • YouTube Channels:

  • Books:

    • "Robotics: Modelling, Planning and Control" by Bruno Siciliano et al. - An essential resource for theoretical and practical knowledge in robotics.
    • "Introduction to Robotics: Mechanics and Control" by John J. Uicker, Graham D. Pennock, and Jacob E. Shigley - A foundational text covering key principles and applications of robotics.
  • Journal of Field Robotics

    • Website: Field Robotics
    • Description: A peer-reviewed journal that publishes articles on all aspects of field robotics, providing insights into research and development in the field.
  • Society of Robotics Engineers (SRE)

    • Website: SRE
    • Description: A professional community that offers networking opportunities, workshops, and resources for robotics engineers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Robotic Systems Engineer in Montana

  • What does a Robotic Systems Engineer do?
    A Robotic Systems Engineer designs, builds, tests, and maintains robotic systems. You will work on automating processes and enhancing the functionality of robots used in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and processing.

  • What skills are essential for a Robotic Systems Engineer?
    Key skills include strong programming knowledge (often in C++, Python, or Java), proficiency in mechanical and electrical engineering, understanding of control systems, and problem-solving capabilities. Familiarity with robotics software platforms and simulation tools is also beneficial.

  • What educational background is required for this role?
    Most positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in robotics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Advanced positions may require a master’s degree or engineering license.

  • What industries employ Robotic Systems Engineers in Montana?
    In Montana, industries such as manufacturing, agriculture (for precision farming), healthcare, and the energy sector utilize Robotic Systems Engineers. Companies in these sectors are innovating with robotic technologies and automation.

  • What is the job outlook for Robotic Systems Engineers?
    The demand for Robotic Systems Engineers is expected to grow, driven by an increase in automation across various industries. This trend suggests a positive job outlook in Montana and nationally as robots become integral to many sectors.

  • What kind of projects might I work on as a Robotic Systems Engineer?
    Projects may include developing autonomous vehicles, creating robotic arms for assembly lines, designing drones for agricultural analysis, or developing robotic systems for surgical applications in healthcare.

  • Are there professional organizations I can join?
    Yes, organizations such as the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society, the Robotics Industries Association (RIA), and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) provide networking opportunities, resources, and industry publications.

  • What certifications could enhance my qualifications?
    Relevant certifications include those from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) in Robotics, the Robotics Certification Standards Collaborative (RCSC), and programs offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA).

  • Can I work remotely as a Robotic Systems Engineer?
    While some aspects of the job, such as programming and design, can be done remotely, hands-on work, like testing and installation, typically requires on-site presence. Many companies may offer hybrid work arrangements.

  • What salary can I expect as a Robotic Systems Engineer in Montana?
    Salaries can vary widely based on experience, education, and industry. In Montana, the average salary for a Robotic Systems Engineer ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 per year, with potential for higher earnings in specialized roles or larger corporations.